Try a pig, bunny, what ever,ie a small piece of throw away fabric same thickness as project to start on the slip onto the project. Stops that chewing of project. You can also give it a little unprofessional pull. Hope this works cheaper than a new plate. When get to end run onto another piece ready for next .

Looking at my bernina ' the new quilting book and found a picture of a straight stitch plate. It has a red warning decal which serves as a reminder not to use zigzag. So get in touch or google for a bernina straight stitch plate and see what happens. Good luck.

I have a Bernina straight stitch needle plate (just a hole) but I learned a long time ago how to avoid the fabric or threat from bunching up. For me the easiest is to just hold onto the thread for a second, until you start sewing. Then its fine, not gobbled up. Others prefer to use a small piece of fabric to start on every time you begin to sew. Good luck!

I found after 20+ years of sewing that using small pieces of cloth to begin and end (and leave until the next seam) really helps with this issue. Bonnie Hunter of Quiltville.com calls them leaders and enders and has precut pieces ready that are then used in another quilt. I am not that organized but the theory is good. I find the beginning and ending of the seams are much neater also.

I love using the leaders/enders but YES Bernina does sell a straight stitch plate for all of their machines.

I agree, I use a starter fabric when piecing and don't have a problem with the fabric getting down in the feed dogs or bobbin case!!!!

Originally Posted by sweetana3

I found after 20+ years of sewing that using small pieces of cloth to begin and end (and leave until the next seam) really helps with this issue. Bonnie Hunter of Quiltville.com calls them leaders and enders and has precut pieces ready that are then used in another quilt. I am not that organized but the theory is good. I find the beginning and ending of the seams are much neater also.

Hmm, interesting suggestions, ladies. I knew I could count on you. I will certainly try these and keep you posted. I might still try to find a straight stitch plate. I heard they're good with knits and sometimes I like to sew with those, even though they're a nightmare.

I feel your pain, I hate when that happens. I don't even have a Bernina, I have a Janome and it happens to me too. I don't like using leaders and enders because I don't typically chain piece so it's definitely a pain. I sometimes just start right on the edge and go ever so slowly until it gets past the hole. I have an automatic thread cutter so pulling the threads back is great if you don't, but not so much if you do. I hope you find your single stitch plate.

I have a small hole plate for my Berninas. I don't know if I purchased it separately or not. It does help when piecing or sewing narrow things like bias binding straps on Princess Pillowcase dresses. Call or e-mail a dealer for the price and availability. It will come in handy in many cases.